A/N: To enrich the reading of this wedding chapter, I suggest that you go to my A/N at the end of the chapter and pull up on YouTube all the songs mentioned so you can play them as the wedding progresses. You will need to allow about an hour or so of time to read and play, but I hope it makes it especially enjoyable and more like you are one of the guests. I believe it will also add even more insight into Mitch and Amy's relationships with the lyrics in the music they have chosen. Of course, all lyrics may not apply exactly, but they were chosen to come very close. Note: For Wild Mountain Thyme, be prepared to play through it twice to get through the four verses.

Chapter 37: The Anticipated Day Arrives

When Mitch and Amy planned the music for their wedding, Mitch held back his surprise for Amy. He went back to his Scottish roots and wrote a special song to sing for her at their wedding. It would be part of the ceremony. They'd also agreed to go by tradition and not see each other the day of the wedding until Amy walked down the aisle.

It was not hard for Mitch or Amy to awaken Saturday morning as both were filled with anticipation for the day that awaited them. In fact, they both awoke earlier than usual laying quietly for a few moments thinking, 'This is the day! It's finally here!'

The Bartlett household was alight with energy and motion all around as everyone scurried to get chores done and last-minute items accomplished before heading to the Boundary Ranch for the wedding. Of course, Amy was excused from chore duty. All her things had been moved to Mitch's except for just what she would need for the day. The bathroom was super busy trying to get everyone in and out, with the family allowing Amy to get first dibs, but they managed to coordinate its use for everyone. Lou was reading off the checklist for jobs completed and items that were needed being all set to go. When the last check mark was made, they all headed out the door to carry their assigned items to be loaded into the vehicles. However, Lisa's vehicle would be taking a quick detour to Mitch's for a little wedding night preparation. She'd loaded everything she'd need the night before, and Mitch had made sure she had a key. The whole family's hearts were filled with joy for Amy and Mitch!

At Mitch's, Doc, Quinn and Shane got up early to help Mitch and the hands get chores done rapidly. Ginny cooked them all a good breakfast that was ready for them when they got in. The guys then immediately headed to shower and shave. Mitch was the first one ready, and Doc and Ginny took advantage of this private moment to express to him how very happy they were that his search had come to an end and that he and Amy had found each other. They'd both been praying for his happiness for a very long time. They were so very proud of their son! All three held back tears as they shared a family hug. Shortly afterward, Shane and Quinn emerged, and aftershave filled the air. They offered to help with anything that needed to be carried out. Soon everyone loaded up all they'd need to head to Boundary. Doc also slipped a card with some money in it near the coffee pot before they walked out the door, his and Ginny's special contribution toward the honeymoon expenses.

As everyone arrived at the Boundary Ranch, the ladies were ushered to where they would get ready and the guys to their location on the other side of the facility. As the guys were dressing and hanging out, Tim walked up to Mitch and asked how he was feeling. Mitch replied, "I'm nervous mostly about remembering my vows, but I'm certain about spending the rest of my life with Amy," he said looking Tim in the eye and recalling their conversation* several years back before the wedding to Maya that didn't happen, and they both shared a meaningful moment of understanding.

Tim helped Mitch with his tie and as he did, he said, "Mitch, I know I've given you a hard time in the past, but please know that I have full confidence in you to take care of Amy and Lyndy, and I'm proud to have you as a son-in-law."

Mitch was a bit taken aback after all they'd been through, but he felt pleased, complimented and very relieved to have true support from Tim verbalized to him.

He said, "Tim, thank you! I really appreciate you expressing that to me. And I do promise to take care of them both," and they shared a quick hug.

Then Mitch found Jack to give him the rings and asked him to make sure that they got well-tied onto Carson's pillow. He assured Mitch he would, and Jack handed him a handkerchief to tuck in his pocket just in case it was needed.

As the ladies were getting ready, Amy had some special shared moments. Her something new was her dress, and something blue was the Forget-Me-Nots in her bouquet. Lisa offered her, once again, the diamond earrings** that she'd worn to the Christmas dance. Amy turned to her with a big smile and gratefully hugged her. And for something old, Ginny came to Amy and said, "Amy, this is a diamond bracelet*** that belonged to Mitch's grandmother, my mother, who came over from Scotland. She gave it to me for my wedding, and I want to pass it on to you for yours."

As Amy looked at it, she noticed it had a similar infinity design to it as the earrings Lisa was loaning her, but it also had love knots that were reminiscent of the necklace that Mitch had given to Lyndy. It was perfect! She looked up at Ginny with tears in her eyes and said, "Are you sure? I don't know if I should accept this."

Ginny said, "Sweetheart, who else in the world would I gift it to. It would mean a lot to me for you to have it." They both enveloped each other in a sweet hug, and when they drew back, Ginny said with a smile, "No tears now, you don't want to spoil your makeup." Lou handed her a tissue, and she caught the tears before they could escape.

All the traditions were covered for her attire, but Lou wanted Amy to know just how much she supported her and Mitch. She pulled Amy to the side and said, "Amy, I want you to know how much I love you and how very happy I am for you and Mitch. I hope this gift will help to remind you of that."

Amy opened the rectangular box that Lou handed her, and inside were two sterling silver anklets with 'Sisters Forever' embedded in a delicate plate on the chain and hearts on either side. Lou said, "We will both wear them today as something special between us." At that point, Amy knew that she totally had Lou's blessing, and they hugged each other long and affectionately.

Lou helped Amy on with her dress,**** and when she was completely ready, Lyndy looked at her and said, "Mama, you are so beautiful! And Mitch is going to think so, too!"

Everyone smiled as Amy said, "Thank you, Sweetheart! And you look beautiful, too!" At that, Lyndy twirled in her dress, and they embraced each other in a sweet and precious hug caught on camera.

Jack and Tim both discreetly disappeared long enough to see Amy before the wedding and tell her how absolutely radiant she looked! They were so thrilled for her and so unburdened to see her truly happy again!

The time drew near for the ceremony to begin. The guys headed to the Kiska Lodge. Mitch and Amy's favorites playlist was already being piped in through the sound system as the guests were arriving. Doc and Ginny along with Lisa, Jessica and the Cuttys with Claire were waiting just outside the entry. Mitch was just inside, so as not to see Amy before it was time, ready to walk his mom down the aisle with his dad. Ten fifty-nine came and the event coordinator, Ann, cued the song for the parents' entry to start. As 'Forever Young'(1) began to play, Mitch took his mom's hand and lovingly placed it through his arm giving her a kiss on the cheek as she looked up at him adoringly, and they started down the aisle with Doc following. As Mitch seated his mom, he kissed her and then circled around the side to the back again. Peter escorted Lisa down the aisle, and Caleb escorted Jessica, followed by Mitch escorting his aunt and uncle; then he took his place up front by the minister. And finally, Logan escorted Claire to sit with the Cutty family. Then Jack, Quinn and Shane were cued to enter from the side.

About that time, the bridesmaids' carriage arrived, and the classical 'Pachelbel's Canon in D'(2) began to play on an acoustic guitar as Katie, then Georgie, and then Lou walked down the aisle. As Georgie walked down, she and Quinn kept eye contact. He thought she looked breath-taking with her dark hair in the turquoise dress. And when Lou walked down the aisle, Peter turned to proudly watch her. They made eye-contact and shared a special moment together. Then Lyndy started down the aisle with Carson, careful to stay right beside him as she dropped yellow petals, and he carried the rings that had been most securely fastened to the pillow. They stole everyone's hearts. Lyndy went to sit with Lisa, and Carson sat in the front row with Caleb and Cass til it was time for his part.

The doors were left open to be sure that Mitch could see Amy as she arrived in her carriage and ascended its steps. The introduction to 'Feels Like Home'(3) began to play, and Mitch caught sight of her. His breath caught.

Tim met her to help her step out, took her arm and covered her hand with his. "Are you ready, Sweetheart?" he asked as he lovingly looked at Amy.

She responded, "So ready, Dad," and he squeezed her hand as his eyes misted.

Robert motioned for the audience to stand. As Amy drew ever closer to Mitch, and he recognized how closely the lyrics of the song especially rang true for them, he was overcome with emotion and could not hold back the tears. He quickly turned his head to the side just long enough to wipe them away to keep the vision of Amy from blurring. He did need that handkerchief after all. He truly had waited for so very long to see the woman he loved with all his heart, and that he knew without a doubt loved him back, walk down the aisle toward him. His heart was beating out of his chest, and he momentarily couldn't breathe. Jack patted his lower back and said, "Deep breaths, Son, just breathe," as Jack smiled knowingly.

As two pairs of crystal blue eyes locked onto each other, Mitch and Amy were aware of no one else. Amy's heart was touched by her love's tears. Once she reached him, everything turned to pure joy for both of them! As the song ended, the minister asked, "Who gives this woman in marriage?" and Tim replied, "I do, and all of us who love her," as he gave a nod to Jack, and he placed her hand in Mitch's.

Amy reached up to wipe away Mitch's last tear as he smiled and said, "Hi!" And Amy whispered, "I've so missed you these last 14 hours!" With that, any vestige of tears turned to elation!

The minister began, "You may be seated. If there is anyone here who knows of any reason these two should not be lawfully joined together as husband and wife, let them speak now, or forever hold their peace." Robert paused for just a moment, and then continued, "Dear family and friends of Mitch and Amy, we are gathered here today to celebrate and witness the union of this lovely couple. They welcome each and every one of you and are so grateful that you have joined them to share in their joy today!"

The song 'Thank You'(4) started to play as Mitch and Amy picked up roses from a nearby table, and they presented one to Ginny, hugging both her and Doc, to Mitch's aunt along with his uncle, and then to Lisa and Jessica with hugs all around to them and Tim. Then as they walked back, they acknowledged Jack with a handshake and a kiss. Mitch and Amy took their place again turning to face all the parents as the song played out. Special moments were shared as eyes met.

As soon as it was over, Mitch looked at Amy and said, "Stay right here." She was completely puzzled as he walked around behind the fireplace and pulled out his guitar and a stool. He sat down and began to play the song he'd written for her.(5)

.

When the stars above are shining

in my dreams you wander, dancing

and I take your hand in my hand

as we dream our life together.

Heart-to-heart we'll sing forever.

.

For we're bound to one another,

pledging love for worse or better

in both sun and rainy weather

we will join our lives together.

.

When the morning dawns with beauty

wakening to your lilting melody

and I will add my harm'ny

as we daily build our family.

Side-by-side we'll make our mem'ries.

.

For we're bound to one another,

pledging love for worse or better

in both sun and rainy weather

we will join our lives together.

.

When we ride with noon's warm breezes

waving o'er bright golden grasses,

midst tears of loss or laughter

we'll give thanks for all our blessings.

Holding close our hopes and promise.

.

For we're bound to one another,

pledging love for worse or better

in both sun and rainy weather

we will join our lives together.

.

O, I give my life to you, Love,

sure as sun and moon above us.

The stars, the wind, the lark's songs

tune my heart to always be yours.

You're my hope, my life, my true love.

.

For we're bound to one another,

pledging love for worse or better

in both sun and rainy weather

we will join our lives together.

.

Amy again realized what a gift she'd been given in this amazing man, and all the guests were so surprised and impressed with the meaning behind the song and Mitch's talent. After putting the guitar back and taking his place before Amy again, she reached up cupping his face and said, "That was beautiful, Mitch! Thank you, I love you so much!" and Mitch's face shone bright in appreciation of her praise.

The minister complimented the meaningfulness of the song for them and moved into the vows and exchanging of rings. He then directed his comments to them, "Mitch and Amy, the vows you make to each other today are a way to proclaim your love and commitment to each other, excluding all others and bonding you to each other for life until death do you part. You make these vows to each other before all these witnesses from this day forward as you fully become one. Will you please join me in prayer? Father, we thank you for this beautiful day you've granted for these two special people to join their lives together. We pray that you will bless them with much joy and laughter along with strength for any hard times that may come, and faithfulness to you and each other. In your son's name we pray, Amen….Mitch and Amy have chosen to share personal vows today. Mitch, you may begin."

As Mitch looked Amy directly in her sparkling blue eyes, he spoke from his heart, "Amy, our beginning snuck up on us and surprised us both. We started as friends, and then became best friends. But then, that friendship deepened to become so much more. You make me a better man. We have laughed together and cried together, and I know we will continue to do that with each other. You truly have become my home. I promise to build our home together, always loving you, respecting your opinions, being there when you need a shoulder to lean on or cry on. I promise to be the wind to support the wings of your dreams. I promise to honor you and protect you. I pledge to love you and you only for the rest of our lives. I've loved you from friendship to home. I love you with all of my heart, Amy, and I take you as my wife and will cherish you for the rest of our lives until death parts us."

Amy began with misty eyes at Mitch's declaration, "Mitch, I didn't know if I could ever love again, and then you unexpectedly walked back into my life. You stole my heart so gradually that I could not resist – with your warmth, your consideration, your thoughtfulness, your humor, your ability to read exactly what I needed at every moment. I respect you, I admire you, and I trust you completely. I promise to support you in all your dreams, to be your comfort in times of trial, to honor you and to protect your trust in me. I promise myself to you only for the rest of our lives. I, too, have loved you from friendship to home. I adore you, Mitch! I take you as my husband, and I give you my whole heart until death parts us."

Then the minister asked for the rings, and Cass whispered to Carson that it was time for him to go up with the rings. He had been well-coached ahead of time, and he proudly walked up between Mitch and Amy to allow the minister to remove the rings. Amy bent down to say thank you and kiss him on the head, and Mitch shook his hand and said, "Well done!" Then Carson proudly turned to walk back to his mom. The minister spoke about the wedding rings' unending circle of wholeness, continuity, and timelessness and that their origin dates back to before recorded history, being one of the oldest wedding traditions.

As Mitch placed the ring upon Amy's finger, he repeated after the minister, "With this ring, I pledge to you, in sickness and in health, all that I have and all that I am. I give to you my life, my heart, my body and soul." And Amy repeated the same words as she placed the ring on Mitch's finger.

When the ring ceremony ended, Mitch motioned for Lyndy to come up. He stood her on the stool he'd used to sing to Amy, and he took her hand in both of his and said to her, "Lyndy, I loved you when you were a baby, and I have only loved you more as we have spent these last months together. You have brought so much joy into my life! I want you to know that I promise to continue loving you. I promise to be your protector and dry your tears when you are sad. I promise to be your biggest cheerleader beside your mama. I promise to listen to you, respect you and be worthy of your trust. I promise to love your mama and to set an example for you of the kind of man you will one day seek to marry. I can never take the place of your Da-da, but I promise to do my best to love you and raise you together with Mama as he would have wanted. I have something for you." And Mitch pulled a small, gold ring from his pocket. "Lyndy, this is a Claddagh ring.***** The hands represent friendship, the crown represents loyalty, and the heart represents love. For now, you will wear the heart pointing outward. I'll explain more about that later. But it's from me to you. I love you, Sweetheart!"

Lyndy let Mitch slip it on her right ring finger and said, "Thank you, Mitch! I love you, too! May I call you Daddy now?" and an "Awww" softly sounded throughout the audience.

Mitch hugged her and said, "I'd love for you to call me Daddy!" and they hugged, then he kissed her on the forehead before he gently set her back on the floor, and Amy, with tears in her eyes, motioned for her to go back to Lisa. The entire wedding party and guests had felt a deep heart-tug in witnessing this extraordinary family.

As Mitch turned back to Amy, the minister said, "By the power invested in me by the province of Alberta, I pronounce you husband and wife. Mitch, you may kiss your bride." And that he did! As the kiss ended, the minister said, "I now present to you Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Cutty," and Mitch and Amy raised their joined hands together in victory and headed dancing down the aisle to the upbeat banjo introduction of 'I Wanna Love Somebody Like You.'(6)

Jack and Lou, both moved by the ceremony, gathered their composure and joined in the dance down the aisle as did Quinn and Georgie, then Shane and Katie. Then Lyndy and Carson tried to mimic the adults in their little kid ways. As the music played out, the audience was swaying and tapping their toes to the rhythm of the infectious music, and laughter filled the air.

As the wedding party circled around to the side to await taking pictures, the minister announced to the audience, "While the family and wedding party are taking photos, you are all invited to have drinks and then join our lovely couple for a BBQ lunch and reception in the other half of this large room behind us."

A/N: *Tim and Mitch conversation referred to was at the beginning of Heartland, Season 12, Episode 11.

**, ***, ****, ***** Photos of the earrings, bracelet, Amy's dress, the Claddagh ring and links to the songs listed below will be posted on the following three Facebook groups: Kevin McGarry Fan Page Home of #McGarries and SuspendersUnbuttoned Podcast; Nathan Grant Fanfiction! Home of Sunday Night Serge; and The Heartie Analyzers: All things Kevin McGarry, KEVLA and WCTH.

(1) 'Forever Young' written by Bob Dylan, 1973. I suggest the Joan Baez live version on YouTube recorded in 1976.

(2) 'Pachelbel's Canon in D' by Johann Pachelbel, late 17th or early 18th century. I suggest Canon in D (Pachelbel – Per-Olov Kindgren guitar) on YouTube.

(3) 'Feels Like Home' by Randy Newman, 1995. I suggest the version on YouTube by Diana Krall and Bryan Adams.

(4) 'Thank You' sung by Jamie Rivera from her 'Hey It's Me, Jamie' album, PolyEast Records, 1987. Rivera can be found singing it on YouTube.

(5) Mitch's song is titled "We Will Join Our Lives Together. The lyrics are an original collaboration by FanFiction writers EM Hunter and ML Wilhoit, and the words are sung to the tune of Wild Mountain Thyme, Scottish/Irish folk song variation of "The Braes of Balquhither" by composer Robert Archibald Smith (1780-1829) Public Domain The lark to which EM Hunter refers is the Western Meadowlark, common in western Canada, and known for a beautiful song. EMH

There are a number of versions of the song on YouTube, but I suggest "Wild Mountain Thyme – Celtic Fingerstyle" by Stephen Wake on guitar. You will need to play it twice through to imagine Mitch singing all four verses of his song.

(6) 'I Wanna Love Somebody Like You' written by Keith Urban with John Shanks in 2001, released in July 2002. Urban can be found singing it on YouTube.